Many shoppers assume that wholesale clubs like Costco, Sam’s Club, and BJ’s Wholesale Club are only accessible to members. While memberships are the standard way to unlock bulk savings, there are a few workarounds that allow non-members to shop and save without committing to an annual fee.
Shop Online Without a Membership
Costco allows non-members to shop online, though most items include a 5% surcharge. Even with the fee, many products remain competitively priced, especially on bulk electronics, furniture, and seasonal goods. Sam’s Club and BJ’s Wholesale Club also offer non-member online shopping options with similar surcharges.
Use a Day Pass or Guest Access
Some wholesale clubs run promotions offering one-day passes or temporary memberships for prospective customers. BJ’s, for example, frequently provides free trial memberships during promotional periods. Always check each club’s website for current offers.
Instacart and Third-Party Delivery Services
Delivery services like Instacart let you shop wholesale clubs without being a member. Costco, Sam’s Club, and BJ’s all participate in Instacart in most regions. While there may be delivery fees or product markups, this method is convenient for those who want access without a membership.
Use Gift Cards as Entry
At Costco, non-members can use store gift cards (called Costco Shop Cards) to enter and shop. Members must purchase the cards initially, but once in hand, they allow full access to the store. This option is ideal if you have a friend or family member willing to buy the card on your behalf.
Pharmacy and Optical Services
In many states, laws require wholesale clubs to provide non-members with access to pharmacy services. This means you can fill prescriptions at Costco or Sam’s Club without a membership. Optical services, such as eye exams, are also available to non-members, though purchasing glasses or contacts may require one.
Final Takeaway
Wholesale memberships unlock the best long-term savings, but occasional shoppers can still take advantage of these clubs without paying annual fees. From Instacart delivery and free trials to gift card access, these strategies allow non-members to experience the benefits of wholesale shopping at a fraction of the cost.
